NOW HIRING: Pumpout Boat Operator

ShoreRivers seeks a Pumpout Boat Operator to conduct the pumpout services on the Miles and Wye rivers, collecting vessel sewage; a free and vital service to the general public, supporting ShoreRivers’ mission to protect and restore Eastern Shore waterways by preventing marine waste from entering our rivers. The most critical skills for this position are reliability, experience navigating small vessels in tidal rivers, and being able to perform physical tasks on the water. This is a part-time seasonal position offering a salary of $22 an hour and is not benefits eligible. Position begins May 1, 2025, or as soon as possible.

The Pumpout Boat Operator reports to the Miles-Wye Riverkeeper and works directly on the pumpout boat, located at the Chesapeake Bay Maritime Museum in Saint Michaels. The employee must live in, or be willing to relocate to, the communities where we work.

To apply, send your resume to Doug Mayorga at dmayorga@shorerivers.org.

Program Responsibilities

  • Operate the pumpout boat during scheduled hours each year from mid-May to early November, including:

    • Fridays: 5 PM – 7 PM

    • Saturdays: 9 AM – 4 PM

    • Sundays: 9 AM – 4 PM

    • Memorial Day, Independence Day (July 4 and 5), and Labor Day: 9 AM – 4 PM

    • Additional hours may be arranged by advance request.

  • Communicate with boaters via VHF Channel 9, phone, and email to schedule and confirm pumpout services.

  • Navigate and operate the pumpout boat safely along its route, including popular anchorages such as St. Michaels Harbor, Long Haul Creek, Leeds Creek, Hunting Creek, Hambleton Cove, Tilghman Creek, Shaw Bay, Dividing Creek, Granary Creek, Wye Landing, Skipton Creek, Drum Point, and Lloyd Creek, and other designated areas.

  • Maintain detailed records of pumpout activities, including the volume of waste collected.

  • Ensure compliance with all local, state, and federal regulations related to marine waste disposal and boat operations.

  • Perform routine maintenance and cleaning of the pumpout boat and the pumpout equipment to ensure it remains in excellent operating condition.

  • Monitor weather and water conditions to adjust schedules as necessary for safety.

  • Provide outreach and education to boaters about the importance of marine waste management and ShoreRivers’ mission.

  • Other duties as assigned.

position requirements and qualifications

The employee must have a strong commitment to environmental protection and subscribe to representing ShoreRivers’ mission and statement of inclusion.

EXPERIENCE & EDUCATION

  • Training, education and experience in the area of pumpout equipment.

  • If born on or after July 1, 1972, you must possess a Certificate of Boating Safety Education (NASBLA approved) as required by Maryland law.

  • An OUPV, or “six-pack” captain’s license, is not required, but preferred.

  • An understanding of environmental issues that affect water quality.

SKILLS & ABILITIES

  • Experience operating small vessels and navigating tidal rivers.

  • Strong verbal communication skills.

  • Familiarity with marine waste management systems is a plus.

  • Excellent reliability, ability to work independently, and manage time effectively.

  • Ability to work outdoors in varying weather conditions.

  • Capable of performing physical tasks, including handling pumpout equipment and minor boat maintenance.

  • Commitment to environmental stewardship and the mission of ShoreRivers.

ShoreRivers believes that swimmable, fishable, clean, and safe rivers are for everyone in our communities. We are an equal opportunity employer and welcome all applicants. This position uses a wide variety of skills; we encourage you to apply if you think you would be a good fit, even if you don’t meet 100% of the qualifications.

About ShoreRivers

ShoreRivers seeks to protect Maryland’s Eastern Shore waterways through science-based advocacy, restoration, education, and engagement. We have a dedicated staff of Riverkeepers, educators, scientists, restoration specialists, and advocates focused on policies and projects that will improve the health of our rivers. Our staff are a strong, collective voice for Eastern Shore waterways.

ShoreRivers believes that diversity, equity, inclusion, and justice in our staff, board, supporters, and programs is critical to achieving our mission of clean water. We believe that access to waterways fuels environmental stewardship; inclusion of diverse communities is essential to long term success; and diverse representation in our membership, staff, and board makes us stronger.